Custom T-Shirt Weights: Heavyweight, Medium Weight, and Lightweight

Whether you’re ordering for summer events, team uniforms, or year-round wear, choosing the right t-shirt weight makes all the difference. So which is the right weight? Our t-shirts range from 4 oz. to 9 oz. (this indicates the weight of a square yard of the shirt fabrics).

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Lightweight T-Shirts (3.5-4.5 oz)

Perfect for summer events, outdoor activities, and warm climates, lightweight t-shirts offer maximum breathability and comfort. These soft, airy tees keep your group cool during beach days, charity walks, field trips, and active events. Great for layering too.

Medium Weight T-Shirts (4.5-5.3 oz)

The versatile choice for year-round wear. Medium weight t-shirts strike the perfect balance between comfort and durability, making them ideal for company uniforms, school spirit wear, family reunions, and everyday custom apparel. These shirts hold up wash after wash while remaining comfortable in any season.

Heavyweight T-Shirts (6+ oz)

When quality matters most, heavyweight t-shirts deliver premium feel and lasting durability. Perfect for employee appreciation, branded merchandise, cooler weather events, and situations where you want to make a lasting impression. These substantial tees convey value and professionalism.

To learn more about the specific components that make up a t-shirt, see our guide to creating the perfect custom tee.

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Frequently Asked Questions About T-shirt Weights

What does t-shirt weight mean?

T-shirt weight refers to how much one square yard of fabric weighs, measured in ounces (oz) or grams per square meter (GSM). Lighter weights feel thinner and more breathable, while heavier weights feel more substantial and durable. We categorize our custom t-shirts as lightweight (3.5-4.5 oz), medium weight (4.5-5.3 oz), and heavyweight (6+ oz) to help you choose the right feel for your group.

Are heavyweight t-shirts better quality?

Heavyweight t-shirts (6+ oz) offer a premium, substantial feel, but they’re not necessarily higher quality than a lighter weight shirt. Depending on the fabric, they may be more durable, hold their shape better, and provide excellent printing surfaces for bold designs. ‘Better’ depends on your needs – lightweight t-shirts can be equally high-quality for summer wear and active events. We help you match t-shirt weight to your specific purpose.

What t-shirt weight is recommended for company uniforms?

Medium weight t-shirts (4.5-5.3 oz) are our most popular choice for company uniforms because they balance comfort, durability, and professional appearance. They’re substantial enough to last through frequent washing yet comfortable for all-day wear. Consider heavyweight (6+ oz) options if you want to convey premium quality or if your team works in cooler environments.

Do lightweight t-shirts shrink more than heavyweight shirts?

Shrinkage depends more on fabric composition than weight. 100% cotton t-shirts (whether lightweight or heavyweight) may shrink slightly after the first wash, while cotton-polyester blends resist shrinking. We provide care instructions with every order. For best results, wash in cold water and tumble dry on low heat regardless of t-shirt weight.

What’s the difference between fabric weight and fabric quality?

Fabric weight measures thickness (ounces per square yard), while quality involves factors like thread count, fiber type, and construction method. A lightweight ringspun cotton t-shirt can be higher quality than a heavyweight basic cotton tee. We curate brands known for quality across all weight categories, including Bella+Canvas, Hanes, Gildan, and Next Level.